HEARD IN THE LUNCHROOM

What Not to Bring to a Job Interview

Most job seekers know to have several copies of their resume and a list of references on hand when attending a job interview. Others, though, seem to have a problem determining what to bring and what to leave at home. Robert Half International polled hiring managers to find out the most unusual tactics candidates have used to stand out during an employment interview. Here are some real-life examples of workers who should have left a few things behind before meeting with potential employers:

• “An applicant pulled his pet iguana from his briefcase saying, ‘I didn’t want to bring him here, but he hates to be alone.’”

• “A beeping noise was coming from the candidate’s briefcase. He opened it, switched off an egg timer, and said he could answer one more question without being late to his next interview.”

• “The candidate opened a large bag of cheese crunchies and began eating them. When the interviewer greeted him, he extended a hand covered with orange dust.”

• “One woman brought a poodle to the interview because she didn’t want to leave it in the car.”

• “One candidate handcuffed himself to the desk during the interview.”

• “We had a candidate bring two bodyguards with him to the interview.”

While these individuals undoubtedly left a lasting image on the hiring managers they met with, it likely wasn’t the type of impression they had hoped to make. To ensure potential employers are left wondering how soon you can start rather than what prompted your strange actions, remember the following advice:

• Before the interview, review the job description and conduct research on the potential employer. This type of preparation will enable you to best highlight how your skills and qualifications can meet the company’s needs, as well as ask focused and intelligent questions that showcase your knowledge.

• Take notes during the interview to demonstrate your attentiveness. Refer back to them when crafting your thank-you letter so you can revisit one or two key points raised during the meeting.

• Send a thank-you card immediately after meeting with a hiring manager. While it’s acceptable to send the note via e-mail, consider also sending a handwritten letter. In today’s digital age, few hiring managers receive such a personal message, and this extra step could give you a leg up over other candidates.

Making a List, Checking it Twice

In a survey by Robert Half International, 77 percent of employees polled said they consider performance reviews valuable. To ensure you get the most out of these meetings, take stock of your professional accomplishments. Make a list of contributions and have it ready when you meet with your supervisor. For example, have you saved your company money, managed a successful project, accomplished an objective on time and within budget, or mentored an employee? Don’t expect your boss to remember all of your successes, especially if he or she manages multiple people.  It’s up to you to build a case for advancement, so start laying the foundation now.

Heard in the Lunchroom^SM is provided by Robert Half, the world’s largest specialized staffing firm and a leading authority on workplace and management trends.  For more information, visit www.rhi.com.